Looking for the perfect Nissan sedan? Compare the Nissan Altima and Maxima in Corpus Christi. We break down performance, price, and features to help you decide!
You’re ready to hit Highway 358 in a sleek new Nissan sedan, but should you go with the Nissan Altima or the Nissan Maxima? Both offer a stylish ride, advanced tech, and reliable performance, but they cater to different drivers. Whether you need a fuel-efficient commuter car or a sporty, upscale sedan, this comparison will help you decide.
Let’s break down the performance, price, and features of these two popular models so you can pick the one that best fits your driving style as you cruise South Texas roads.
If you’re looking for a mid-size sedan that delivers excellent fuel efficiency, a smooth ride, and advanced safety features — all at a budget-friendly price — the Nissan Altima is a standout choice. With an EPA-estimated rating of around 27–39 MPG (depending on trim, drivetrain, and driving conditions), the Altima is built for long commutes and weekend road trips without frequent fuel stops. Its spacious interior and cutting-edge technology help make each drive more comfortable and secure.
Another great feature? The available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system — something not all sedans offer. Whether you’re dealing with rainy Corpus Christi weather or road-tripping beyond Texas state lines, the Altima can give you extra confidence on the road.
If you crave a full-size sedan that brings power, style, and upscale features to your daily drive, the Nissan Maxima delivers. Known as the “4-Door Sports Car,” the Maxima comes standard with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 300 horsepower for an exhilarating driving experience.
Inside, the Maxima’s cabin feels more like a luxury vehicle than a traditional sedan. Features like available quilted leather-appointed seats, a Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof, and an 11-speaker Bose® Premium Audio System can elevate your comfort. If you’re looking for a sedan that stands out with a bold design and thrilling performance, the Maxima could be the way to go.
We’ve covered the basics. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and compare performance, pricing, and features side by side.
The Nissan Altima and Maxima both have excellent performance, but the Altima offers a more fuel-efficient, daily-driver experience while the Maxima goes big on thrill.
| Feature | Nissan Altima | Nissan Maxima |
| Engine Options | 2.5L 4-cylinder (188 hp, 180 lb-ft torque) OR available 2.0L VC-Turbo (248 hp, 273 lb-ft torque) | Standard 3.5L V6 (300 hp, 261 lb-ft torque) |
| Drivetrain | Available AWD | FWD only |
| Fuel Economy | 27–39 MPG (city/highway, varies by trim) | 20–30 MPG (city/highway) |
| Driving Style | Efficient & smooth | Sporty & powerful |
When shopping for a brand-new Nissan or a used vehicle, price is often the main determining factor. Let’s look at the starting investment for each model.
The Maxima and Altima both boast Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™, Nissan Safety Shield® 360, and available Bose® premium sound system. However, some features are unique to each model, or come standard on the Maxima while requiring an upgrade for the Altima.
| Feature Category | Nissan Altima | Nissan Maxima |
| Interior Comfort | Cloth seats standard, leather-appointed seats available on higher trims | Standard leather-appointed seats, available quilted premium leather on higher trims |
| Seating & Space | Midsize sedan with comfortable seating for 5, spacious rear seats | Full-size sedan, more driver-focused cockpit, slightly less rear-seat legroom |
| Luxury Features | Heated seats & steering wheel available, power-adjustable front seats | Heated and ventilated front seats standard, Zero Gravity front seats with premium materials |
| Infotainment & Display | Standard 8-inch touchscreen, optional 12.3-inch digital display on higher trims | 12.3-inch touchscreen standard, fully digital driver display with more customizable options |
| Sunroof Options | Available power sliding glass moonroof | Standard Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof for a more open feel |
If you’re looking to get the absolute latest tech and features, a higher-trim Altima could be the better choice. The Maxima unfortunately ended production in 2023, so only the Altima has models released after that year. A used Maxima can still be excellent for drivers looking for a sportier, exciting ride, though. If you go the Certified Pre-Owned route, you can rest easy knowing your Maxima has undergone an extensive inspection and meets Nissan standards.
Nobody other than you can determine which Nissan sedan is best for your comfort and driving needs. However, these two vehicles often have different lifestyle fits.
The Altima could be the right choice if you want a practical daily driver with great fuel economy and AWD.
The Maxima could be the better option if you prefer a powerful, sportier, and more upscale sedan.
Still undecided? The best way to know which vehicle is right for you is to get behind the wheel! If you’re ready to experience the Altima or Maxima for yourself, visit us at Ed Hicks Nissan in Corpus Christi. You can test drive both vehicles on SPID, and we’ll help you find the sedan that fits your budget and lifestyle.
